If you are looking to explore her best work or rewatch some of Bollywood’s finest modern films, here are 5 must-watch Alia Bhatt movies ranked for your watch list.
1. Raazi (2018)
In this edge-of-your-seat patriotic thriller directed by Meghna Gulzar, Alia Bhatt plays Sehmat Khan, an innocent young Indian woman who is married into a Pakistani military family to serve as an undercover spy during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. Her portrayal of vulnerability mixed with quiet determination makes Raazi an emotional powerhouse.
2. Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022)
Helmed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, this biographical crime drama features Alia Bhatt in one of her most commanding roles to date. Playing Gangubai, a young girl duped into prostitution who grows up to become a prominent matriarch and advocate for women's rights in Kamathipura, Alia commands the screen with fierce authority and grace.
3. Highway (2014)
Directed by Imtiaz Ali, Highway was the film that truly showcased Alia Bhatt’s acting depth early in her career. She plays Veera, a bride-to-be who finds unexpected emotional freedom and self-discovery after being abducted just days before her wedding. Paired with A.R. Rahman’s hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, it remains a timeless road drama.
4. Dear Zindagi (2016)
Facing career stress, relationship burnout, and insomnia? Dear Zindagi offers a comforting, warm hug of a movie. Directed by Gauri Shinde, the film stars Alia as Kaira, an aspiring cinematographer who seeks the guidance of an unconventional therapist, Dr. Jehangir "Jug" Khan (played by Shah Rukh Khan). It is a heartwarming story focused on mental health and self-acceptance.
5. Gully Boy (2019)
Directed by Zoya Akhtar, Gully Boy follows the rise of an aspiring street rapper from the slums of Mumbai. While Ranveer Singh leads the story, Alia Bhatt turns in a scene-stealing performance as Safeena Ali—a fiercely loyal, fiery, and possessive medical student. Her iconic dialogues and bold screen presence made her character an instant fan favorite.
Rank | Movie Title | Genre | Key Theme / Highlights |
1 | Raazi | Espionage / Thriller | Bravery, emotional sacrifice, covert operations |
2 | Gangubai Kathiawadi | Biographical Drama | Empowerment, justice, fiery performance |
3 | Highway | Drama / Road Trip | Freedom, self-discovery, soul-stirring music |
4 | Dear Zindagi | Coming-of-Age / Drama | Mental wellness, life lessons, warm storytelling |
5 | Gully Boy | Musical / Drama | Ambition, street hip-hop culture, feisty character |
Final Thoughts
Whether you are in the mood for high-stakes espionage, a moving character portrait, or a soulful journey of self-reflection, Alia Bhatt’s filmography offers something for every mood.
Which of these five movies is your personal favorite?
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